I am frequently asked about pillows for less neck pain and better sleep. I am in the middle of my most recent stop on this quest myself. The unfortunate truth is that the pillows that help you have less neck pain and better sleep today, might be your neck and sleep’s worst enemy tomorrow.
I have tried all sorts of pillows; foam, down, contoured pillows, and “my pillows”. My awesome pillows will cause me to feel less neck pain and sleep better for months and then all the sudden, they don’t. Incredibly frustrating, especially for a chiropractor.
The biggest determiner of the type of pillow you need is which position you sleep. If you sleep on your stomach, which you shouldn’t, don’t use a pillow. If you sleep on your side, you need a thick pillow to avoid nerve compression. Back sleepers must support their necks.
My favorite pillow is one I sell in my office. https://www.footlevelers.com/products/orthopedic-pillows It’s made by measuring you in four places. We also ask you which position you sleep in which then determines the shape of the pillow. I have bought three over the years for myself.
I have tried My Pillows. While I have heard rave reviews from many of my friends and clients, I think they are tough to find the appropriate size if you are a woman. If you are going to go that route, definitely buy it in store. The online questionnaire to size it based on a woman’s t-shirt size, certainly didn’t do it for me.
Cervical orthopedic pillows are also very helpful for neck support. There are many different brands to choose from but one that generally looks like the one in this link should be the goal. https://www.coreproducts.com/collections/cervical-pillows/products/d-core-orthopedic-pillow You really do need the roll under your neck if you sleep on your back and the taller sides if you sleep on your side to keep your spine in line.
You can check out this video for my full review https://www.activefamilychiropractic.com/post/selecting-the-best-pillow-for-you
Sadly pillows aren’t returnable so most of us with neck issues end up with a collection. Your neck is definitely worth the price. The biggest thing that will help your neck feel better is getting regular chiropractic adjustments to keep everything moving properly and encourage good posture.
If you don’t have a chiropractor, we would love to be yours! Please check out our website to see if we are a good fit https://www.activefamilychiropractic.com or book your new patient appointment online https://www.activefamilychiropractic.com/booking-calendar